Moving to Qatar - Some pointers needed
By london1975 •
Hi,
Im probably going to be moving to Doha in February and wanted to find out a couple of things.
My first question is, how much would a husband and wife expect to spend on a monthly basis, considering that apartment and car are paid for by the company I will be working for. I need to get some idea of food and general living prices, say if we eat out at a decent restaurant a few times a month and all the other times eat at home etc.
Also, I need some information on the best option for my wife, I guess that she can get a visa to live there, what are the chances of her working in Doha. Is it common for female ex-pat wifes to work out there? Do I need to sponsor her or something similar?
Thanks for any pointers.
Good day to all! I have plans to let my wife come here under husband sponsor, but the main problem is that I had received news a month ago that only husbands that have monthly salary of not less than QAR7000 can sponsor his wife. I would like to know if it is true? And if it's true, what are the other ways I can take inorder for me to get her. Thank you very much. Your response will be highly appreciated.
Yes, your employer should be the one to do all the work!
Mandi
Mandi,
Thanks for your advice. I am checking out the pages at the Qatar Embassy site about it all, and will be checking it all out with my potential new employer when he is back from his Christmas break.
http://www.qatarembassy.net/Work%20Permits.asp
Why not get an RP for her? Then she can come and go as she chooses, get a driver's license, etc.
Mandi
Thanks for the comments guys.
It looks like I need to find out a little more about the visa situation - I think the company can apply for one for her, but I want to make sure she isnt too bored at home all day doing nothing without a job :)
Do you know off hand if my wife wasnt to get a full time visa and just came for visits, what the longest time she could stay for. Is it possible to get a 3 month or longer visa for visiting?
On the expenses side, I guess 2000 a month for food shopping is reasonable, and as the accommodation and car are paid for we shouldnt have to many other expenses - apart from eating out or doing other leisure activities.
Would 5000 Riyals a month be enough to cover everything (food, leisure) for a modest couple?
QR500 a week sounds about right for weekly groceries. With the current exchange rate most things are a bit more expensive here than in the UK.
If you are coming from London you'll find shopping prices pretty similar. Sure you can shop around and find things cheaper, but initially, budget on UK prices and you'll be fine.
As you your wife. You need to consider if she will stay here full time. Are you being given family status or single? This will affact your vacation/flights home. If you are family status your company will arrange her visa.
There is work for expat wives, but the salaries are not fantastic and the job may take some searching.
Did you Google it first?
Hello, London and welcome in advance! You will be coming at a lovely time of year. Doha is a big city, so expect big city prices with some nice exceptions. Food is about the same as the US/UK unless you go for specialty items. Petrol is much cheaper. Clothes are roughly the same. Gym memberships vary widely and restaurants are all over the map. Hotels and hotel food are very expensive, small ethnic restaurants are not. Schools are very expensive for children. Furniture can be pricey, ask for furnished accommodations. Your employer should start the visa work for your wife, you will be her actual sponsor. Make sure that's all understood before you come. Yes she can find work, if she wishes. Some Western women find that the hourly wage isn't worth the effort.
Mandi